I can’t determine whether you have all three conditions. Regardless, your complex disorders each have various causes and their own cluster of symptoms. They are almost always associated with high levels of pain-causing inflammatory chemicals, one of which is called TNF.

If you suffer from one of these conditions or any type of “itis” (like pancreatitis, arthritis etc.) talk to your doctor about reducing TNF and other nasty pain-causing chemicals like substance P. It’s not a cure-all, but it may help.

Doctors often prescribe injectable drugs, such as Enbrel, Remicade, Cimzia and Humira, to block TNF. But this class of drugs makes me nervous.

New studies suggest that TNF blockers almost double your risk for shingles and they may cause life-threatening fungal infections. To reduce substance P, doctors usually prescribe narcotics like Vicodin, Percocet or morphine, which dull your sense of pain. You and your doctor have to determine whether these are right for you. Believe it or not, you can find TNF blockers in your kitchen:

Curcumin: It’s a natural yellow dye found in the spice turmeric. High-quality curcumin supplements are terrific antioxidants and many studies prove that curcumin reduces TNF.

Ginger: A powerful anti-inflammatory. Buy it fresh, not powdered. Peel it and grate about an inch into your soups, sauces or morning juice. Steep it in hot water to make tea, which is terrific for nausea and indigestion. If you supplement, take about 1,000 mg two to four times daily.

Herbs: Cook with fresh rosemary and oregano.

Tea: Green tea also lowers TNF.

If you want to supplement, consider Zyflamend, a unique product that combines many strong anti-inflammatory herbs that may help with the painful disorders I’ve discussed today. This product is sold at health food stores, online and there is information at www.newchapter.com. (I have no connection to the makers, I just like to point you in healthy directions.)

Did You Know?If you drink a glass of red wine each night, thiamine supplements can protect your gut lining.